A typical meal in Cusco, Peru may include bread with butter and jam and coffee or tea. Other popular choices include: a chicharrón (fried pork) sandwich, tamale, or empanada. BREAKFAST IN CUSCO On my second day in Cusco I had breakfast at La Valeriana, a darling café...

First day in Cusco, Peru. I step off the plane in Cusco, and immediately feel the affects of high altitude. 11,152 feet. I can’t breathe. The air is thick, my lungs are weak, and my heart is pounding in my chest. It could just be anxiety. Fear of being in a...

Note: Originally written Thursday, 11/18 CURRENT LOCATION: LIMA AIRPORT Last night I slept for one hour. I laid out across three plastic airport chairs, and my day pack acted as a pillow (I told it not to quit its day job). I have seen uncountable waves of people...

Note: Originally written Wednesday, 11/17 It’s 8:56am and I’m sitting in SFO airport. This flight will be first of three legs. Final destination: Cusco, Peru. But I won’t get there until tomorrow afternoon, so I’ve got a lot of time. ...

About Me

Hi! I'm Melissa. I've been traveling the world despite my 9-5 job since 2014. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, and would love to show you how you can travel more!